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McLaren reveals unique X-1 concept at The Quail

August 16, 2012

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McLaren introduced a one-off supercar at The Quail on Aug. 17. It's named the X-1 and was built for an anonymous car enthusiast. It has a unique body that the client says reflects his personality.

The client wanted a competition between external designers from in and outside the automotive world. The final design was penned by Korean-born McLaren employee Hong Yeo.

As stylized as the car looks, it was not just a fanciful design study. Every part has its job.

“X-1 embodies the McLaren value that every part has to have a purpose. No details are simply visual cues,” Yeo said. “Although, I like to think the wide body combined with pontoon-style rear fenders will ensure the car glides when it's moving just like a superhero's cape.”

One of the biggest challenges was creating an elegant body that sits over a mid-engine chassis. McLaren says a new visual language had to be found, which led to months of sketching. First they built a 30 percent-scale model and then a full-sized version, as the customer wanted to see the car as it would look.

The X-1 is based on the McLaren MP4-12C, which means it uses the sports car's twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V8 with the same 592-hp output. More specs haven't been revealed, but we're pretty sure it won't clip off a 3.3-second 0-to-60-mph sprint.

McLaren Special Operations program director Paul Mackenzie thinks the car is a testament to the company's dedication.

“The X-1 showcases the skills of McLaren Special Operations,” Mackenzie said. “More and more luxury customers want bespoke or individual features. The X-1 demonstrates that we can provide the ultimate personalization service.”

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